Get to know KYSFMA member: Pablo Hernandez-UK Sports Turf Student
How did you get into field maintenance?
Worked with UK for coming up on 4 years and kind of just went with it, I started to like it more and more the more I did it.
What’s a typical day out here look like for you?
Involve maintaining the fields but also trying to keep a good work environment all around.
What part of the job do you enjoy the most?
I would say mowing, I kind of get to do my own thing and in my zone.
What’s the toughest part about keeping this field in good shape?
Definitely the weather, you can’t beat mother nature, so you have to just try to maintain it the best you can and try to make it look as best as possible.
How do you decide what needs to get done on a busy day?
See what big things need to get done first, then after the small ones. Attention to detail matters especially with field maintenance, but not everyone sees that on a daily basis.
What kind of equipment do you use the most?
I would say a mower.
Ever had any funny or unexpected things happen while working on the field?
Holding the hose at softball, watering pre game and the hose busted off the quick connect and water went everywhere!
How do you handle the field after bad weather?
Have to observe what is occurring, and then figure out what solution works best to get it looking as best as you can despise the weather.
What’s something most people don’t realize goes into keeping a field looking good?
Takes a lot of time, effort, and patience. It just doesn’t look good because it’s good weather or it rains or things like that. You actually have to take care of the grass, maintain it and keep things clean.
Which tasks take the longest or require the most patience?
I would definitely say personally, getting ready for a softball game.
How do you work around team practices or games?
Figure out what their schedule is, and do what you can in the time gaps that you have/get.
What’s one thing players or coaches do that makes your job easier? Harder?
When they are appreciative of what you do and take it into consideration. Harder, probably not communicating all the way.
Is there anything you wish people understood better about field maintenance?
Just the grind it takes to make it look good out there.
What’s your favorite season for field work? Least favorite?
Favorite is spring, least is definitely winter time.
If you could upgrade anything about the field or equipment, what would it be?
Personally I don’t think anything, I like what we have and how we use it!
